Katherine Zappone (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary strength, courage and character of the transgender community, particularly Dr. Lydia Foy and Mr. Michael Farrell, as well as all of the other people who have gathered with us over this time, as Senator Mooney stated so eloquently. I am sure the Minister of State accepts it is right and good that I acknowledge them first. We are all very pleased the Bill has passed, even though we have made the strongest of arguments possible, to which the Minister of State has listened. There is more to come in terms of the research done by various Members. It was fantastic to feel the support for the transgender community in Ireland in a cross-party way. We differed on minor issues. I hope it sends a strong signal to transgender people that we celebrate, acknowledge, affirm and recognise their right to their own identity.

With regard to the role of Minister of State and how he approached the work on this important Bill, perhaps one of the first he has brought through the House, he has played a blinder because he respects all of us, including those who sit behind him and give him the strong advice which enables us to have the robust discussions we have had. I agree with Senator Mooney it is a very good day that we are sending this to the other House with the arguments which are still unfinished. I am appreciative of the roles of the Tánaiste and the Minister of State and how they have worked with their colleagues in the Government to bring us to this point.